Evaluation of Feeding Potential of Mexican Beetle (Zygogramma bicolorata) on Carrot Grass (Parthenium hysterophorus) in Dehradun District, Uttarakhand, India

Zygogramma bicolorata is an efficient natural control agent that can be used against Parthenium hysterophorus, a very common and allergic weed found in the Dehradun belt of Uttarakhand region. It is responsible for asthma, bronchitis, skin lesions, rashes, contact dermatitis, hay fever and various respiratory ailments. Z. bicolorata is a natural predator of this vicious weed. The feeding capacity of Mexican beetle, Z.bicolorata was studied under controlled conditions, at the Department of Zoology, S.G.R.R. University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 2023.Ten different sites were chosen from the Dehradun district, considering the widespread availability of Parthenium weed in the region. It was detected that the feeding capacity of the adult stage of the beetle was maximum in site 3 and lowest in site 6. The result showed in site 3 that he adult consumed 3.7 g leaves of Parthenium at 20 °C whereas, the similar relevant statistics were 2.3 mg. The detriment caused by Z. bicolorata was more visible when it was used at a higher density and at the initial growing stages of Parthenium. The fully mature stages were preferred less in comparison to the younger ones. This technique can be highly useful if implemented wisely in the management of Parthenium weed and contributes towards achieving the goal of sustainable development.